So good they named it twice… Shiraz is mostly found in Australian wines, and Syrah, the name used in its homeland, France, the rest of Europe, California and so on.

SHIRAZ

Shiraz has become synonymous with the New World’s rise to fame as wine producers. The style in Oz is often full-bodied, with rich fruit chocolate and spice notes. The warm growing conditions lend an almost sweet feel to the wine while in France – particularly in the Rhône, Syrah’s first home – pepper is the unmistakeable hallmark of the grape.

SYRAH

Syrah’s most renowned use is in the Rhône – particularly Côte Rotie and Hermitage. Here bottles can demand a very high price, but look further south and you’ll find Syrah used very successfully in blends – often with Grenache, Mourvedre, Cinsault – and going for considerably less dosh. In France, Syrah’s hallmark aroma is black pepper often complemented by a very pleasing mouthful of blackberry, prune and figs.

The 2015 Syrah is a deeply hued and full-bodied wine that was produced in a northern Rhone style and reflects the excellent harvest that fall. The addition of a small percentage of Viognier during fermentation is represented both in the vibrant colour...